The Government of India has conveyed the following notice to the Diplomatic Missions in India with regard to the extension of the validity period of the visas of foreign nationals who are stranded in India due to COVID-19:

“Regular Visa, e-Visa or stay stipulation, of such foreign nationals who have been stranded in India because of spread of COVID-19 in many parts of the world and also due to travel restrictions imposed by the Indian authorities and whose visas have expired or would be expiring during the period from 01 February 2020 (Midnight), to 03 May 2020 (Midnight), would be extended till midnight of 03 May 2020 on ‘GRATIS’ basis, after making online application by the foreigner. Exit of such foreign nationals, if so requested by them, will also be granted to them upto 14 days beyond 03 May 2020 i.e., 17 May 2020 without levy of overstay penalty.”